Many police departments in Virginia are facing significant staffing shortages, resulting in longer response times for addressing and responding to service calls. Law enforcement agencies in Virginia are struggling to handle service calls, crime prevention, and proactive policing, leading to overwhelming demand for filling department vacancies and raising safety concerns for citizens.

The Commonwealth of Virginia does not currently allow Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) to serve as law enforcement officers in their respective communities. Challenging this legislation and allowing lawful residents to serve would help address shortages and enhance public safety. 

LPRs play a vital role in their communities and deserve the opportunity to actively contribute to community safety and well-being. Please Support and Sign this petition to urge the Governor to permit LPRs to join our law enforcement agencies and help keep Virginia safe.

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As a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you have the right to live and work in the United States and should not be denied to serve you’re community .

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Since 2022, Illinois, California, Colorado, and Washington, D.C. have passed laws allowing lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and other lawful residents to become police officers. Other states that also allow legal residents to serve their respective communities include Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Dakota, Oklahoma, New York, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.